Iran and Oman have agreed on a new route for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz and are finalizing arrangements to jointly manage the passage, according to Tehran’s foreign ministry on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global energy trade. Iran has held de facto control over the strait since February 28, 2026, following the launch of hostilities by the United States and Israel against the country.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that Iran seeks a deal with the United States to reopen the strait to shipping. However, Iran denies this and states it will coordinate with its neighbor Oman instead.

Spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, cited by the state news agency IRNA, said, “The geographical coordinates of the route envisaged by the two sides have been agreed upon and, if certain third parties do not obstruct the process, the joint statement of the two countries, containing the main considerations and points of agreement, is also in the final review and drafting stage.”

Baqaei also noted that talks with Oman are progressing but cautioned that even if an understanding is reached, it would not guarantee the strait’s safety for all vessels.

The United States imposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz effective July 14, 2026, following attacks on UAE tankers in the region.

Sources